Robert C. Stevenson

Robert "Bob" C. Stevenson, aged 70, of Oregon, Ohio, passed away on Sunday, May 5, 2024, at Kingston Residence of Perrysburg. He was born in Toledo, Ohio, on November 25, 1953, to Robert and Doris (Zimmerman) Stevenson. Bob married his love, Paula Marie York on September 8, 1979, and they cherished 38 years together until her passing on June 7, 2018.

Bob graduated from the University of Toledo with a degree in Chemistry in 1976. He commenced his career as an intern at the City of Toledo Water Treatment Facility, progressing to roles as Chemist, Manager, and eventually Commissioner. Bob's expertise in addressing the challenge of zebra mussels in the Great Lakes led to numerous contributions in scientific papers, books, and initiatives aimed at understanding and managing this invasive species.

In 2002, Bob assumed the role of Director of Public Utilities, subsequently becoming Director of the Toledo Waterways Initiative in 2006, overseeing a significant sewer and wastewater treatment plant rehabilitation project. During his tenure, Toledo's drinking water quality reached national acclaim, and was often ranked in the top five in the country. In recognition of his efforts and devotion to clean water, the American Water Works Association awarded Bob the prestigious George Warren Fuller Award in 2013.

Upon retiring from the City of Toledo in 2007, Bob joined Arcadis Engineering as Principal in Charge, managing water, wastewater, and engineering projects for the Toledo and Detroit areas until his official retirement in 2022.

Bob's character was marked by love, loyalty, integrity and honesty. He was a devoted friend, with friendships spanning 60 some years. He cherished time with family and enjoyed engaging in outdoor pursuits like birding, fishing, hunting, and golfing. An avid photographer, Bob captured countless family memories behind the lens. He was a serious Michigan Wolverines fan, and enjoyed watching the games with friends and his wife, Paula, despite her playful banter on whether he may or may not have been a OSU fan before she came along, proving love can really conquer the biggest of divides.

Though he is gone, his friends and family find comfort in the many memories they have. Special fishing trips, pep talks to the Christmas ornaments who may not make the tree, family dinners, tailgating Michigan vs. OSU games with friends, that time he tried to take the dog back but forever claimed they “just went for tomatoes”, and so much more, keep his family laughing and smiling during this difficult time.

Bob is survived by his daughter, Marissa Stevenson; son, Preston (Colton) Stevenson; and sister, Joyce Hensley who will miss him greatly. He was preceded in death by his parents and wife, Paula Stevenson.

Friends will be received at Sujkowski Walker Funeral Home, 830 Lime City Rd., Rossford, Ohio 43460 on Tuesday, May 14, 2024, from 3-7 p.m. Visitation will continue on Wednesday, May 15, from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. with a funeral service starting at 11:00 a.m. at the funeral home. Burial will follow in Toledo Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Black Swamp Conservancy in Bob's honor. Online condolences may be left at walkerfuneralhomes.com.